kcw inspiration: traveling around the world

I sew for my three kids (and occasionally for myself) and document it all over at my blog, Mend & Make New. I’ve been joining in with the seasonal KCW challenges for a little while now and just love it!

I’m very excited to be bringing you some sewing inspiration from around the world. I don’t know about you but I’d love to go on a fabric and sewing tour of this planet. I would fill my suitcase with Liberty fabrics from London and hand embroidered dresses from Mexico, I’d marvel at the traditional batik fabric stamping methods in India and run my hands through beautiful silks from China. I’d admire the simplicity of Japanese patterns and take photos of French fashion while strolling along the River Seine. Although this is only a dream, it doesn’t mean we can’t take a virtual trip right now!

Grab your croissant because our first stop is France, the fashion capital of the World.

When I think French children’s wear, I think of crisp linen, blue and white stripes, beautiful tailoring and smartly dressed boys. It’s true that often boys get the raw end of the deal in terms of patterns available and general sewing inspiration out there online. However, there is just so much you can sew for your petit homme within the French theme. I’ve used the Blank Slate Basic Blazer in my collage below, but so many of the Blank Slate patterns can be used with a French twist.

Now we say ‘au revoir’ to France and ‘namaste’ to India. When I think of Indian clothing I think of vibrant colours, gorgeous saris, lovely lightweight cotton often hand stamped with the most elaborate designs. You might want to have a go at stamping some fabric yourself and then whip your child up a one of a kind kaftan or pair of harem pants. You should be able to find a stamp either on Etsy (like this beautiful one) or perhaps at your local craft store. (Or you could just buy some pre-made; Fabric.com has a great selection … including metallics ohh!)

Our final destination in this jet setting adventure is Japan. I love Japanese fabric and Japanese clothing designs, don’t you? How could you not love gorgeous Nani Iro fabric and simple, classic pattern designs?